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Science News for March 4, 2009


Immune cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis have prematurely aged chromosomes

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine discovered that immune cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis have trouble turning on the enzyme that replenishes telomeres, leading to premature aging. This finding suggests that restoring defective telomerase could help 'reset' the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Heart hazards of woeful wives

A University of Utah study finds that women in troubled marriages are more likely to experience depression, high blood pressure, and obesity, which can increase the risk of heart disease. In contrast, men in strained marriages do not face an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a group of risk factors for heart disease.

Surviving lung cancer

A new technique called stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been shown to significantly improve survival rates for early-stage lung cancer patients, with a median survival range of over 32 months. The treatment doubles the odds of surviving and can even cure at least half of the patients, offering hope without the need for surgery.

Mountain on Mars may answer big question

Rice University researchers found that pockets of ancient water may still exist under Olympus Mons due to the presence of clay sediments. This could provide a habitable environment for thermophilic organisms, which thrive near geothermal vents on Earth.

SourceRice University·JournalGeology·DateMar 4, 2009

Obsessive symptoms in childhood can multiply the probabilities of an obsessive compulsive disorder

Children with childhood obsessive and compulsive symptoms are six times more likely to suffer from an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as adults, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed data from the Dunedin Study, which tracked participants' psychological variables from childhood to adulthood.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 4, 2009

Chronic diseases are leading causes of death in OPT

In the occupied Palestinian territory (OPT), chronic diseases such as heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer are leading causes of death. The Palestinian National Authority's response has been limited due to military occupation and its consequences on the healthcare system.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 2009

Can a computer model prevent a war?

Researchers are developing a computer model to analyze the behavior and customs of political and cultural groups to predict potential conflicts and facilitate peaceful resolution. The model, known as ATRAP, uses three-dimensional maps to identify relationships and affiliations between groups, enabling analysts to compute equilibrium so...

Kidney disease increases the risk of stroke in patients

A new study by Kaiser Permanente researchers found that chronic kidney disease independently increases the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Kidney function may provide an additional clue about how to best assess stroke risk and decide upon the best prevention strategy for patients with AF.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalCirculation·DateMar 4, 2009

Broadband wireless research gets 'green' light

The Australia-China Research Centre aims to reduce the number of base stations required in wireless networks, thereby lowering their environmental impact. The centre will focus on advanced antenna technologies and signal processing algorithms for next-generation broadband wireless communications networks.

Palestinians lack basic human security

Threats to Palestinian life and well-being have intensified since 2000, including killings, injuries, and destruction of homes and properties. Access to basic services like fuel, electricity, water, and sanitation is disrupted by Israeli restrictions and military incursions.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 2009

Mortality risk greater for elderly women who nap daily

A new study found that older women who reported taking daily naps had a 44% increased risk of dying from any cause. This association remained significant among relatively healthy women and was strongest for cardiovascular-related mortality.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 4, 2009

Taking the pulse of our planet

The USA-NPN is launching a new national program to track the effects of climate change on seasonal changes in plant and animal behavior. Scientists will use volunteer observations to monitor life cycles of nearly 200 species of plants, predicting wildfires, pollen production, droughts and assessing ecosystem vulnerability.

New database important resource in caring for dialysis patients

The Comprehensive Dialysis Study (CDS) includes data on more than 1,600 patients, providing a valuable new resource for improving dialysis outcomes. Researchers can examine the interrelated factors affecting the health of new dialysis patients and identify predictive significance of early physical and nutritional status.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Novel veterinary procedure detecting life-threatening injuries touted

Researchers developed a new thoracic ultrasound examination called TFAST to diagnose pneumothorax and other thoracic injuries in dogs. The study found that TFAST proved highly accurate for detecting PTX and other related injuries, with accuracy comparable to human clinical research.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateMar 4, 2009

Politicians can use fear to manipulate the public

A new study explores how and when politicians can use fear to manipulate the public into supporting policies they might otherwise oppose. Politicians' use of fear is more likely with abstract topics that are difficult for citizens to observe.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateMar 4, 2009

Rituximab reduces kidney inflammation in patients with lupus

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology suggests that rituximab can significantly improve kidney health in patients with severe lupus nephritis. The immunosuppressive drug showed promise in reducing inflammation and improving renal outcomes in those who did not respond to conventional therapy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Antibody key to treating variant CJD, scientists find

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have determined the atomic structure of the binding between an antibody and a brain protein that could be key to treating vCJD. The study found that this antibody, ICSM18, has therapeutic potential in preventing brain cell infection and reversing early damage caused by the disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Algae could fuel cars and jobs

The production of algae-based biodiesel has been shown to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding the use of fossil resources. Additionally, establishing an algal biodiesel plant could create up to 45 jobs in rural areas and provide opportunities for diversifying agricultural sectors.

Is the Dead Sea dying?

The Dead Sea's water levels are decreasing at an accelerated rate, primarily caused by increased human water consumption from the Jordan and Yarmouk Rivers. The study suggests that desalination of seawater or construction of new channels could help slow down the receding water levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateMar 4, 2009